Versatile defender Darren Kenton could become a Saints player by the start of next week.

The 24-year-old, who can play at both right back and central defence, last night agreed an early termination to his contract at Carrow Road and officially became a free agent.

Saints tried to snap him up before the transfer window closed in January but the Canaries wanted to hold on to the highly-rated defender as they pushed for a play-off spot.

That is no longer a possibility and Kenton and his advisors met with Norwich club officials yesterday to arrange the early termination of his contract - due to expire in June.

And The Echo understands that will pave the way for the man who was brought up through the Norwich youth system to move to the south coast, though he won't be able to play in any matches until next season due to transfer regulations.

But the extra time he could be at the club would allow him to settle in and, if Saints act quickly to finalise the deal as they are expected to, it will prevent him joining someone else as could happen if they waited until the summer.

Saints are obviously in a stronger bargaining position now they can dangle the carrot of European football to prospective signings for next season.

Norwich City chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "Darren has made it clear that he wishes to exercise his ability to become a free agent and join another club at the end of this season and does not wish to sign another contract with Norwich City. That is his right under the Bosman Ruling.

"Our agreement with Darren to release him two months early is simply a way of avoiding part of our contractual commitment to him between now and June 30, thereby saving the club money."

Canaries boss Nigel Worthington added: "Darren has done exceptionally well and we wish him all the best at his next club."

Kenton said: "My goal was always to get to the Premiership with Norwich City but now I feel it's time for a change."